An introductory text reads, when it comes to being happy, there is no “magic bullet,” but the latest research suggests we may be able to cultivate positive emotions and well-being through a variety of activities, many of which do not involve spending money. That being said, money does play a role - and it’s not so much about how much you have, but how you choose to use it. A schematic of a man is shown at the center, pointing toward different pathways.
The pathways to happiness with the condition yes are as follows,
Prioritizing relationships: cultivating deep and meaningful relationships with family and friends seem to bolster happiness (Helliwell et al, 2018).
Going to college: higher levels of education have been linked to greater happiness (Trostel, 2015, October 14).
Achieving “flow”: while studying, working, or pursuing an interest, allow yourself to become completely absorbed in challenging and rewarding tasks (Csikszentmihalyi, 1999; Culbertson et al., 2015).No.
Buying time: paying for timesaving services, such as grocery delivery, is associated with “greater life satisfaction” (Whillans, Dunn, Smeets, Bekkers, & Norton, 2017, p 1).
Being kind and generous: Whether you are buying a gift or donating to charity, spending money on others is likely to increase your happiness (Dunn et al, 2014; Park et al, 2017).
Counting your blessings: Being grateful for what you have may lead to less stress and greater well-being (Emmons & McCullough, 2003; Krejtz et al, 2016).
The pathways to happiness with the condition no are as follows,
Becoming a millionaire: salaries increases may boost happiness, but “most data suggest that after basic needs have been met, additional income is not associated with increases in well-being” (Mogilner & Norton, 2016, p 12).
Buying new stuff: buying new things may provide temporary pleasure, but it is unlikely to increase long-term happiness (Donnelly, Ksendzova, Howell, Vohs, & Baumeister, 2016; Lyubomisky et al, 2005).
The pathways to happiness with the condition may be are as follows,
Moving your body: physically active people are generally happier than their sedentary peers (Lathia et al, 2017).
Buying experiences: Investing in vacations, restaurant meals, and other activities is more likely to promote “enduring happiness” than purchasing material items (Gilovich & Kumar, 2015).